U.S. patent application number 15/471895 was filed with the patent office on 2017-10-05 for aquatic sport performance garment with arms-up construction and method of making same.
The applicant listed for this patent is ROKA Sports, Inc.. Invention is credited to Robert A. CANALES, Kurt R. SPENSER, Mark C. STEPHENS, Nathan TRACY.
Application Number | 20170280792 15/471895 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58461243 |
Filed Date | 2017-10-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170280792 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SPENSER; Kurt R. ; et
al. |
October 5, 2017 |
AQUATIC SPORT PERFORMANCE GARMENT WITH ARMS-UP CONSTRUCTION AND
METHOD OF MAKING SAME
Abstract
An aquatic sport performance garment configured to improve a
user's performance, enhance a user's speed and ease with which the
wearer moves through water, provide better control of body
temperature in diverse environments and reduce overall fatigue
while wearing the garment. A garment having an upper-torso portion,
a free-floating, sealing collar and sleeves biased in an arms-up
configuration.
Inventors: |
SPENSER; Kurt R.; (Dallas,
TX) ; CANALES; Robert A.; (Dallas, TX) ;
STEPHENS; Mark C.; (Dallas, TX) ; TRACY; Nathan;
(Dallas, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ROKA Sports, Inc. |
Dallas |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58461243 |
Appl. No.: |
15/471895 |
Filed: |
March 28, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62315378 |
Mar 30, 2016 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 27/02 20130101;
A41D 2400/24 20130101; A41D 27/10 20130101; A41D 7/00 20130101;
A41D 31/00 20130101; A41D 2500/52 20130101; B63C 11/04 20130101;
A41D 31/18 20190201; A41D 2600/10 20130101; B63C 2011/046 20130101;
A41D 13/012 20130101; A41D 13/0015 20130101; A41D 27/18 20130101;
A41D 31/04 20190201 |
International
Class: |
A41D 13/012 20060101
A41D013/012; B63C 11/04 20060101 B63C011/04; A41D 27/18 20060101
A41D027/18; A41D 27/02 20060101 A41D027/02; A41D 7/00 20060101
A41D007/00; A41D 31/02 20060101 A41D031/02 |
Claims
1. An aquatic sports performance garment comprising: an upper torso
portion comprising; an aquatic sports performance garment material;
a left sleeve portion having a left shoulder region, a left armpit
region and a left sleeve outer edge; a right sleeve portion having
a right shoulder region, a right armpit region and a right sleeve
outer edge; a neck region comprising a single free-floating
flexible collar with a neck opening; wherein the aquatic garment
material in the left shoulder region, the left armpit region, the
right shoulder region, the right armpit region comprises a
multi-directional liner having a multi-directional flexibility
configured to reduce fatigue of a user, wherein the left sleeve
portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up configuration, such
that the left sleeve outer edge extends out generally anteriorly
from a coronal plane of the garment at an angular range from about
-15.0.degree. to at least about +100.0.degree. relative to a
transverse plane transecting the upper torso at or about a top of
the left shoulder region and a top of the right shoulder region,
and wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment is further
positioned approximately parallel to a sagittal plane of the
garment, when the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn
by the user, wherein the right sleeve portion of the garment is
biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the right sleeve
outer edge extends out generally anteriorly from the coronal plane
of the garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at
least about +100.0.degree. relative to the transverse plane, and
wherein the right sleeve portion of the garment is further
positioned approximately parallel to the sagittal plane of the
garment, when the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn
by the user, and wherein the collar portion comprises a
multi-directional liner in the aquatic garment material that is
patterned and configured to move with and improve flexibility in
the left shoulder region, left armpit region, right shoulder region
and right armpit region, and wherein the single free-floating
flexible collar comprises flexible garment material configured to
seal around a neck of the user to reduce or prevent water from
entering the garment through the neck opening.
2. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 1, wherein the
garment material in the left shoulder region, left armpit region,
right shoulder region and right armpit region comprises a material
thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 7.0 mm.
3. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 1, wherein the
garment material in the left shoulder region, left armpit region,
right shoulder region and right armpit region comprises a modulus
of elasticity from 0.31 kg/cm.sup.2 at 50% elongation to 4.14
kg/cm.sup.2 at 300% elongation.
4. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 1, wherein the
upper torso portion further comprises: a chest (pectoralis) region;
an upper back (trapezius) region; an upper (latissimus dorsi)
region, an abdominal region; a lateral oblique (oblique abdominal)
region; and a mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region.
5. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 4, wherein the
chest (pectoralis) region, and upper back (trapezius) region
further comprise a material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about
7.0 mm.
6. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 4, wherein the
abdominal region, the lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region or
the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region further comprise a
material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 7.0 mm.
7. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 4, wherein the
garment material of the upper back (trapezius) region; the upper
(latissimus dorsi) region, the chest (pectoralis) region; the
abdominal region; or the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region
comprises an embedded liner that inhibits elongation of the garment
material therein more than the garment material in the left
shoulder region, the left armpit region, the right shoulder region
or the right armpit region.
8. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 1, wherein the
left sleeve portion and the right sleeve portion comprise: short
sleeves terminating between an elbow and a biceps region; or long
sleeves terminating between an elbow and a wrist.
9. (canceled)
10. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 1, further
comprising: a lower torso portion having an aquatic sports
performance garment material, the lower torso portion comprising a
waist region, a pelvic girdle region, including a crotch region;
and a left leg portion and a right leg portion below the crotch
region.
11. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 1, wherein the
garment material of the left shoulder region, the left armpit
region, the right shoulder region and the right armpit region
comprises multi-directional elasticity comprising elongation having
a range from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%;
about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to
about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%.
12. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 10, wherein the
left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise: a short leg
portion terminating at or above a knee; or a long leg portion
extending below the knee.
13. The wetsuit of claim 8, wherein the left sleeve portion and the
right sleeve portion have material thicknesses in a range
comprising: about 0.5 mm to about 7.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 6.0
mm; about 1.0 mm to about 5.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 4.0 mm;
about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 2.0 mm; about
0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm; about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm; about 1.0 mm
to about 1.5 mm; or about 0.5 mm to about 1.0 mm.
14. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 7, wherein the
material for constructing the upper back (trapezius) region
comprises multi-directional elasticity comprising elongation having
a range from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%;
about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to
about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%.
15. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 4, wherein the
material for constructing the upper (latissimus dorsi) region, the
chest (pectoralis) region, the abdominal region, the lateral
oblique region or the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region
comprises uni-directional elasticity comprising elongation having a
range from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%;
about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to
about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%.
16. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 4, wherein the
material for constructing the upper (latissimus dorsi) region, the
chest (pectoralis) region, the abdominal region, the lateral
oblique region or the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region
comprises multi-directional elasticity comprising elongation having
a range from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%;
about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to
about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%.
17. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 1, wherein the
aquatic sports performance garment material comprises: neoprene; a
rubber; a nylon; a polyester; a polypropylene; Lycra; or
Spandex.
18. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 1, further
comprising a quick opening feature; wherein the quick opening
feature is positioned; on an anterior aspect of the garment; on a
lateral aspect of the garment; or on a posterior aspect of the
garment; and wherein the quick opening feature comprises: a zipper;
a Velcro attachment a hook; a loop; a rail, or a lip.
19. The aquatic sports performance garment of claim 1, wherein the
aquatic sports performance garment material comprises a
configurable embedded liner that limits the percentage and
direction of elongation of the garment material, wherein the
percentage of elongation of the garment materials is from at least
50% at least 400%, and wherein the direction of elongation of the
garment materials is either uni-direction or multi-directional.
20. A method of manufacturing an aquatic sports performance garment
comprising: providing an aquatic sports performance material;
patterning an upper torso portion comprising; a neck region; a
chest (pectoralis) region; an upper back (trapezius) region; an
upper (latissimus dorsi) region, an abdominal region; a lateral
oblique (oblique abdominal) region; and a mid-to-low back
(thoraco-lumbar) region; wherein the neck region comprises a single
free-floating flexible collar with a neck opening, patterning a
left sleeve portion having a left shoulder region, a left armpit
region and a left sleeve outer edge; patterning a right sleeve
portion having a right shoulder region, a right armpit region, and
a right sleeve outer edge; wherein the aquatic garment material in
the left shoulder region, the left armpit region, the right
shoulder region, the right armpit region comprises a
multi-directional liner having a multi-directional flexibility
configured to reduce shoulder fatigue of a user, wherein the left
sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up
configuration, such that the left sleeve outer edge extends out
generally anteriorly from a coronal plane of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to about +100.0.degree.
relative to a transverse plane transecting the upper torso at or
about a top of the left shoulder region and a top of the right
shoulder region, and wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment
is further positioned approximately parallel to a sagittal plane of
the garment, when the garment material is at rest, prior to being
worn by a user, wherein the right sleeve portion of the garment is
biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the right sleeve
outer edge extends out generally anteriorly from the coronal plane
of the garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to
about +100.0.degree. relative to the transverse plane, and wherein
the right sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned
approximately parallel to the sagittal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user,
wherein the collar portion is configured to move with and improve
flexibility in the left shoulder region, left armpit region, right
shoulder region and right armpit region, and wherein the single
free-floating flexible collar is configured to seal around a neck
of the user to reduce or prevent water from entering the garment
through the neck opening.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/315,378, filed Mar. 30, 2016, which application
is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to swimming
apparel, and more particularly to the design and construction of
aquatic sports performance apparel, cold water wetsuits, deep water
scuba wetsuits, triathlon garments, surfing apparel, aquatic
compression garments and other swimwear. Various aquatic sport
performance apparel have been developed in the art, and are
utilized for a variety of purposes. Among these are performance
wetsuits, which are popular among triathletes and open water
swimmers. Additionally, special performance wetsuits have been
adopted by surfers, scuba divers and the military for Special
Forces personnel. Performance wetsuits provide drag reduction in
the form of faster-than-skin surface coatings, warmth and
additional buoyancy to the wearer, and are designed to enhance the
speed and ease with which the wearer moves through the water while
swimming.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Provided herein is an aquatic sports performance garment
configured to improve a user's performance, enhance a user's speed
and ease with which the wearer moves through water, provide better
control of body temperature in diverse environments and reduce
overall fatigue while wearing the garment.
[0004] Provided herein is an aquatic sport performance garment
configured to reduce fatigue of a user when the garment is worn,
the garment having an aquatic sports performance garment material,
the garment comprising: an upper torso portion comprising; a left
sleeve portion having a left shoulder region, a left armpit region
and a left sleeve outer edge; and a right sleeve portion having an
right shoulder region, a right armpit region and a right sleeve
outer edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment is
biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the left sleeve outer
edge extends out generally anteriorly from a coronal plane of the
garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least
about +100.0.degree. relative to a second transverse plane
transecting the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder
region and a top of the right shoulder region, and wherein the left
sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned approximately
parallel to a sagittal plane of the garment, when the garment
material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user, wherein the
right sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up
configuration, such that the right sleeve outer edge extends out
generally anteriorly from the coronal plane of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to the second transverse plane, and wherein
the right sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned
approximately parallel to the sagittal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the
user.
[0005] Provided herein is an aquatic sports performance garment
configured to reduce fatigue of a user when the garment is worn,
the garment having an aquatic sports performance garment material,
the garment comprising: an upper torso portion comprising; a left
sleeve portion having a left shoulder region, a left armpit region
and a left sleeve outer edge; and a right sleeve portion having an
right shoulder region, a right armpit region and a right sleeve
outer edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment is
biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the left sleeve outer
edge extends out generally laterally relative to a sagittal plane
of the garment from a left lateral aspect of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to a second transverse plane transecting
the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder region and a
top of the right shoulder region, and wherein the left sleeve
portion of the garment is further positioned in a range that is
approximately parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane of the
garment, when the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn
by the user, wherein the right sleeve portion of the garment is
biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the right sleeve
outer edge extends out generally laterally relative to the sagittal
plane from a right lateral aspect of the garment at an angular
range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about +100.0.degree.
relative to the second transverse plane, and wherein the right
sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned in a range that
is approximately parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane of
the garment, when the garment material is at rest, prior to being
worn by the user.
[0006] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the garment material in the left shoulder region, left armpit
region, right armpit region and right armpit region comprises a
material thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm. In any
embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment, the garment
material in the left shoulder region, left armpit region, right
armpit region and right armpit region comprises a modulus of
elasticity from 0.31 kg/cm.sup.2 at 50% elongation to 4.14
kg/cm.sup.2 at 300% elongation. In any embodiment of the aquatic
sports performance garment, the upper torso portion further
comprises: a neck region; a chest (pectoralis) region; an upper
back (trapezius) region; an upper (latissimus dorsi) region, an
abdominal region; a lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region; and
a mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region. In any embodiment of the
aquatic sports performance garment described herein, the neck
region comprises a large collar portion; and a free-floating
flexible collar with a neck opening; wherein the large collar
portion is patterned and configured to improve flexibility in the
left shoulder region, left armpit region, right shoulder region and
right armpit region; and wherein the free-floating flexible collar
comprises highly flexible garment material configured to seal
around a neck of the user to reduce or prevent water from entering
the garment around the neck. In any embodiment of the aquatic
sports performance garment described herein, the neck region, chest
(pectoralis) region, and upper back (trapezius) region further
comprise a material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 7.0
mm.
[0007] In some embodiments of the aquatic sports performance
garment described herein, the neck region, chest (pectoralis)
region, and upper back (trapezius) region further comprise a
material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm. In any
embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment, the
free-floating flexible collar, the abdominal region, the lateral
oblique (oblique abdominal) region or the mid-to-low back
(thoraco-lumbar) region further comprise a material thickness from
about 1.0 mm to about 7.0 mm. In some embodiments of the aquatic
sports performance garment, the free-floating flexible collar, the
abdominal region, the lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region or
the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region further comprise a
material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm. In any
embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment, the garment
material of the upper back (trapezius) region; the upper
(latissimus dorsi) region, the chest (pectoralis) region; the
abdominal region; or the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region
comprises an embedded liner that inhibits elongation of the garment
material therein more than the garment material in the left
shoulder region, the left armpit region, the right shoulder region
or the right armpit region. In any embodiment of the aquatic sports
performance garment, the left sleeve portion and the right sleeve
portion comprise: short sleeves terminating between an elbow and a
biceps region; or long sleeves terminating between an elbow and a
wrist. In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the neck region further comprises: a large collar portion; and a
free-floating flexible collar with a neck opening; wherein the
large collar portion is patterned and configured to improve
flexibility in the left shoulder region, left armpit region, right
shoulder region and right armpit region; and wherein the
free-floating flexible collar comprises highly flexible garment
material configured to seal around a neck of the user to reduce or
prevent water from entering the garment through the neck opening.
In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment, the
garment material of the left shoulder region, the left armpit
region, the right shoulder region, the right armpit region
comprises multi-directional elasticity comprising elongation having
a range from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%;
about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to
about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%. In some embodiments of the
aquatic sports performance garment, the aquatic sports performance
garment further comprises: a lower torso portion having an aquatic
sports performance garment material, the lower torso portion
comprising; a waist region, a pelvic girdle region, including a
crotch region; and a left leg portion and a right leg portion below
the crotch region. In some embodiments of the aquatic sports
performance garment, the left leg portion and the right leg portion
comprise: a short leg portion terminating at or above a knee; or a
long leg portion extending below the knee. In any embodiment of the
aquatic sports performance garment, the left sleeve portion and the
right sleeve portion have material thicknesses in a range
comprising: about 0.5 mm to about 7.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 6.0
mm; about 1.0 mm to about 5.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 4.0 mm;
about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 2.0 mm; about
0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm; about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm; about 1.0 mm
to about 1.5 mm. or about 0.5 mm to about 1.0 mm. In any embodiment
of the aquatic sports performance garment, the material for
constructing the upper back (trapezius) region comprises
multi-directional elasticity comprising elongation having a range
from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%; about 100%
to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to about 200%;
or about 100% to about 150%. In any embodiment of the aquatic
sports performance garment, the material for constructing the upper
(latissimus dorsi) region, the chest (pectoralis) region, the
abdominal region, the lateral oblique region or the mid-to-low back
(thoraco-lumbar) region comprises uni-directional elasticity
comprising elongation having a range from: about 50% to about 400%;
about 100% to about 350%; about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to
about 250%; about 100% to about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%.
In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment, the
material for constructing the upper (latissimus dorsi) region, the
chest (pectoralis) region, the abdominal region, the lateral
oblique region or the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region
comprises multi-directional elasticity comprising elongation having
a range from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%;
about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to
about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%.
[0008] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the material comprises neoprene. Further still, in any embodiment
of the aquatic sports performance garment, the material comprises a
rubber; a nylon; a polyester; a polypropylene; Lycra.RTM.; or
Spandex.RTM..
[0009] In some embodiments, the aquatic sports performance garment
further comprises a quick opening feature. In some embodiments of
the aquatic sports performance garment, the quick opening feature
is positioned: on an anterior aspect of the garment; on a lateral
aspect of the garment; or on a posterior aspect of the garment. In
some embodiments of the aquatic sports performance garment, the
quick opening feature is a zipper. In some embodiments of the
aquatic sports performance garment, the quick opening feature
comprises a Velcro.RTM. attachment. In some embodiments of the
aquatic sports performance garment, the quick opening feature
comprises: a hook; a loop; a rail, or a lip. In any embodiment of
the aquatic sports performance garment, the material comprises a
liner. In some embodiments, the liner comprises nylon. In any one
of the embodiments the liner provides uni-lateral elongation
properties or multi-lateral elongation properties to the garment
materials. In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance
garment, the aquatic sports performance garment material comprises
a configurable embedded liner that limits the percentage and
direction of elongation of the garment material, wherein the
percentage of elongation of the garment materials is from at least
50% at least 400%, and wherein the direction of elongation of the
garment materials is either uni-direction or multi-directional.
[0010] Provided herein is a method of manufacturing an aquatic
sports performance garment comprising: providing an aquatic sports
performance material; patterning an upper torso portion comprising;
a neck region; a chest (pectoralis) region; an upper back
(trapezius) region; an upper (latissimus dorsi) region, an
abdominal region; a lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region; and
a mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region; wherein the neck region
comprises a large collar portion; and a free-floating flexible
collar with a neck opening; patterning a left sleeve portion having
a left shoulder region, a left armpit region and a left sleeve
outer edge; patterning a right sleeve portion having a right
shoulder region, a right armpit region, and a right sleeve outer
edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment is biased in
an arms-up configuration, such that the left sleeve outer edge
extends out generally anteriorly from a coronal plane of the
garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least
about +100.0.degree. relative to a second transverse plane
transecting the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder
region and a top of the right shoulder region, and wherein the left
sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned approximately
parallel to a sagittal plane of the garment, when the garment
material is at rest, prior to being worn by a user, and wherein the
right sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up
configuration, such that the right sleeve outer edge extends out
generally anteriorly from the coronal plane of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to the second transverse plane, and wherein
the right sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned
approximately parallel to the sagittal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user,
and wherein the upper-torso portion of the garment covers the
upper-torso of the user from a first transverse plane at or about a
waist of the user.
[0011] Provided herein is a method of manufacturing an aquatic
sports performance garment comprising: providing an aquatic sports
performance material; patterning an upper torso portion comprising;
a neck region with a neck opening; a chest (pectoralis) region; an
upper back (trapezius) region; an upper (latissimus dorsi) region,
an abdominal region; a lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region;
and a mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region; wherein the neck
opening comprises the free-floating flexible collar, patterning a
left sleeve portion having a left shoulder region, a left armpit
region and a left sleeve outer edge; patterning a right sleeve
portion having a right shoulder region, a right armpit region, and
a right sleeve outer edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the
garment is biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the left
sleeve outer edge extends out generally laterally relative to a
sagittal plane of the garment from a left lateral aspect of the
garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least
about +100.0.degree. relative to a second transverse plane
transecting the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder
region and a top of the right shoulder region, and wherein the left
sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned in a range that
is approximately parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane of
the garment, when the garment material is at rest, prior to being
worn by the user, and wherein the right sleeve portion of the
garment is biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the right
sleeve outer edge extends out generally laterally relative to the
sagittal plane from a right lateral aspect of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to the second transverse plane, and wherein
the right sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned in a
range that is approximately parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal
plane of the garment, when the garment material is at rest, prior
to being worn by the user. In some embodiments the method further
comprises: patterning a quick opening feature in the upper-torso
portion; wherein the quick opening feature is positioned: on an
anterior aspect of the garment; on a lateral aspect of the garment;
or on a posterior aspect of the garment. In some embodiments of the
method, the quick opening feature is a zipper. In some embodiments
of the method, the quick opening feature comprises a Velcro.RTM.
attachment. In some embodiments of the method, the quick opening
feature comprises: a hook; a loop; a rail, or a lip. In some
embodiments the method further comprises: patterning a lower torso
portion, abuttable to, or affixable to, the upper torso portion
comprising; a waist region, a pelvic girdle region, a crotch
region, a left leg portion and a right leg portion; wherein the
lower torso portion covers the lower torso of the user from a first
transverse plane at or below the waist of the user. In some
embodiments the method further comprises: affixing the lower torso
portion to the upper torso portion to form a one-piece aquatic
sports performance garment. In some embodiments of the method, the
left sleeve portion and the right sleeve portion comprise:
patterning a short sleeve terminating between an elbow region and a
biceps region; or patterning a long sleeve terminating between an
elbow region and a wrist. In some embodiments of the method, the
left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise: a short leg
portion terminating at or above a knee; or a long leg portion
extending below the knee. In some embodiments the method further
comprises: providing a thermally insulating material having a
thickness in a range from about 0.5 mm to about 7.0 mm. In some
embodiments of the method, the thermally insulating material
comprises: a neoprene; a rubber; nylon; a polyester; a
polypropylene; Lycra.RTM.; or Spandex.RTM.. In some embodiments the
method further comprises: providing the material with
multi-directional elasticity in the left shoulder region, the left
armpit region, the right shoulder region, the right armpit region
and the upper back (trapezius) region; and providing material with
uni-directional elasticity; in the upper lateral (latissimus dorsi)
region, in the chest (pectoralis) region, in the abdominal region,
in the lateral oblique region, and in the mid-to-low back
(thoraco-lumbar) region.
[0012] Provided herein is a wetsuit comprising: a material
providing thermal insulation to a user thereof, an upper torso
portion comprising a neck region with an opening; and a left sleeve
portion having an upper left shoulder region, a left armpit region
and a left sleeve outer edge; and a right sleeve portion having an
upper right shoulder region, a right armpit region and a right
sleeve outer edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment
is biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the left sleeve
outer edge extends out generally anteriorly from a coronal plane of
the garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at
least about +100.0.degree. relative to a second transverse plane
transecting the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder
region and a top of the right shoulder region, and wherein the left
sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned approximately
parallel to a sagittal plane of the garment, when the garment
material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user, wherein the
right sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up
configuration, such that the right sleeve outer edge extends out
generally anteriorly from the coronal plane of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to the second transverse plane, and wherein
the right sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned
approximately parallel to the sagittal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user,
wherein the left sleeve portion and the right sleeve portion
comprise; short sleeves terminating between an elbow and a biceps
region; or long sleeves terminating between an elbow and a wrist, a
lower torso portion having an aquatic sports performance garment
material, the lower torso portion comprising; a waist region, a
pelvic girdle region, including a crotch region; and a left leg
portion and a right leg portion below the crotch region; wherein
the left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise; a short
leg portion terminating at or above a knee; or a long leg portion
extending below the knee.
[0013] Provided herein is a wetsuit comprising: a material
providing thermal insulation to a user thereof; an upper torso
portion comprising; a left sleeve portion having an upper left
shoulder region, a left armpit region and a left sleeve outer edge;
and a right sleeve portion having an upper right shoulder region, a
right armpit region and a right sleeve outer edge; wherein the left
sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up
configuration, such that the left sleeve outer edge extends out
generally laterally relative to a sagittal plane of the garment
from a left lateral aspect of the garment at an angular range from
about -15.0.degree. to at least about +100.0.degree. relative to a
second transverse plane transecting the upper torso at or about a
top of the left shoulder region and a top of the right shoulder
region, and wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment is
further positioned in a range that is approximately parallel to, or
anterior to, a coronal plane of the garment, when the garment
material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user, wherein the
right sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up
configuration, such that the right sleeve outer edge extends out
generally laterally relative to the sagittal plane from a right
lateral aspect of the garment at an angular range from about
-15.0.degree. to at least about +100.0.degree. relative to the
second transverse plane, and wherein the right sleeve portion of
the garment is further positioned in a range that is approximately
parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user,
wherein the left sleeve portion and the right sleeve portion
comprise; short sleeves terminating between an elbow and a biceps
region; or long sleeves terminating between an elbow and a wrist, a
lower torso portion having an aquatic sports performance garment
material, the lower torso portion comprising; a waist region, a
pelvic girdle region, including a crotch region; and a left leg
portion and a right leg portion below the crotch region; wherein
the left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise; a short
leg portion terminating at or above a knee; or a long leg portion
extending below the knee. In any one of the wetsuit configurations
described herein, the wetsuit further comprises a neck region; a
chest (pectoralis) region; an upper back (trapezius) region; an
upper (latissimus dorsi) region, an abdominal region; a lateral
oblique (oblique abdominal) region; and a mid-to-low back
(thoraco-lumbar) region. In any one of the wetsuit configurations
described herein, the garment material in the left shoulder region,
left armpit region, right armpit region and right armpit region
comprise a material thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 7.0 mm. In
some embodiments of the wetsuit configurations described herein,
the garment material in the left shoulder region, left armpit
region, right armpit region and right armpit region comprise a
material thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm. In any one of
the wetsuit configurations described herein, the neck region, chest
(pectoralis) region, and upper back (trapezius) region further
comprise a material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 7.0 mm. In
some embodiments of the wetsuit configurations described herein,
the neck region, the chest (pectoralis) region, or the upper back
(trapezius) region further comprise a material thickness from about
1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm. In any one of the wetsuit configurations
described herein, the free-floating flexible collar, the abdominal
region, the lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region or the
mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region further comprise a material
thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 7.0 mm. In some embodiments of
the wetsuit configurations described herein, the free-floating
flexible collar, the abdominal region, the lateral oblique (oblique
abdominal) region or the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region
further comprise a material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about
3.0 mm. In any one of the wetsuit configurations described herein,
the garment material in the left shoulder region, left armpit
region, right armpit region and right armpit region comprise a
modulus of elasticity from 0.31 kg/cm.sup.2 at 50% elongation to
4.14 kg/cm.sup.2 at 300% elongation.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0014] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned
in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the
same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent
application was specifically and individually indicated to be
incorporated by reference.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The novel features of the invention are set forth with
particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the
features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained
by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth
illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention
are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a front view of an illustrative embodiment of a
sports performance garment illustrating representative multiple
possible positions of the arms in an "arms-up" at-rest lateral or
anterior lateral and overhead position in comparison to a
traditional "arms-down" lateral position, in accordance with the
teachings herein.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a back view of an illustrative embodiment of a
sports performance garment illustrating a representative overhead
arms position of the arms in an "arms-up" at-rest position in
accordance with the teachings herein.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a left side view of an illustrative embodiment of
a sports performance garment illustrating a representative range of
positions for the arms in an "arms-up" at-rest position in
accordance with the teachings herein.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a front view of an illustrative example of a
sports performance garment showing representative locations of
various regions of the sports performance garment comprising
variations in material composition and/or lining and panel
structures in relation to other features of the sports performance
garment in accordance with the teachings herein.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a another front view of an illustrative example of
a sports performance garment illustrating representative
positioning of multiple flexibility and restraint patterns in
relation to other features of the sports performance garment in
accordance with the teachings herein.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a another front view of an illustrative embodiment
of a sports performance garment illustrating representative
multiple possible positions of the arms in an "arms-up" at-rest
anterior and overhead position with the arms approximately parallel
to the sagittal plane, in accordance with the teachings herein.
[0022] FIG. 7 is another left side view of an illustrative
embodiment of a sports performance garment illustrating a
representative range of positions for the arms in an "arms-up"
at-rest anterior and overhead position with the arms approximately
parallel to the sagittal plane, in accordance with the teachings
herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] While existing aquatic sport performance apparel are
generally suitable for their intended purpose, further improvements
in the art are possible. This is especially true with respect to
performance garments that are designed for use in swimming and
triathlon events, since even small improvements in such a sports
performance garment or wetsuit can make the difference between
success and failure for the wearer. Additionally, aquatic sports
performance apparel for extreme sports such as cold water swimming,
deep water scuba, triathlons, and surfing need to provide
performance characteristics that give the user every advantage
possible to increase their performance and safety.
[0024] The present disclosure relates generally to swimming
apparel, and more particularly to the design and construction of
aquatic sports performance apparel, cold water wetsuits, deep water
scuba wetsuits, triathlon garments, surfing apparel, aquatic
compression garments and other performance swimwear. Various
aquatic sport performance apparel have been developed in the art,
and are utilized for a variety of purposes. Among these are
performance wetsuits, which are popular among triathletes and open
water swimmers. Additionally, special performance wetsuits have
been adopted by surfers, scuba divers and the military for Special
Forces personnel. Performance wetsuits provide drag reduction in
the form of faster-than-skin surface coatings, warmth and
additional buoyancy to the wearer, and are designed to enhance the
speed and ease with which the wearer moves through the water and
reduce fatigue during use.
[0025] Provided herein is an aquatic sports performance garment
configured to improve a user's performance, enhance a user's speed
and ease with which the wearer moves through water, provide better
control of body temperature in diverse environments and reduce
overall fatigue while wearing the garment.
[0026] Other wetsuits are too thick in some areas and subsequently
too stiff, resulting in the overheating and general strain of
various muscle groups, causing premature fatigue. Alternatively,
some wetsuits are not stiff enough in other areas, resulting in
failure to properly support skeletal structures or appropriately
activate core muscle groups necessary to provide the extra lift a
swimmer needs to improve buoyancy, improve net body position in the
water, promote proper swimming mechanics, or encourage optimal
rotation of the body along the longitudinal axis, all of which can
affect the user's endurance.
[0027] Still other wetsuits incorporate lower density neoprene in a
bid to improve buoyancy. However, the density distribution in such
wetsuits is typically also sub-optimal, leading to increased heat
retention and resistance to proper swimming mechanics. For example,
such designs often incorporate lower density materials in the arms
and hip regions of the wetsuit, which may inhibit proper rotation
of the swimmer's body along its longitudinal axis (roll).
Similarly, such designs also often fail to ensure optimal body
position along a lateral axis (pitch).
[0028] Further still, the patterning of the components of the
garment can play a critical role in reducing the fatigue of a user,
by reducing the amount of energy required to continuously overcome
the inherent elasticity of the material and the way the components
of the garment are assembled.
[0029] It has now been found that many of the foregoing issues are
addressable through modified construction of a wetsuit.
[0030] It is understood by one skilled in the art that materials
and material conditions may be altered or manipulated to provide
varying desirable characteristics, or conversely, to eliminate
undesirable characteristics. These characteristics or material
properties can include, but are not limited to, thickness,
direction of stretch, elasticity, modulus of elasticity, creep,
fatigue, flexural strength, rotational strength and/or tensile
strength depending on the homogeneity of the material, bending
modulus, resilience, shear strength, stiffness and toughness, among
other physical and/or chemical properties.
[0031] As used herein, the term "lateral" refers to the anatomic
sides of a body, or wetsuit: In anatomy, the side of the body or a
body part that is farther from the middle or center of the body.
Typically, lateral refers to the outer side of the body, but it is
also used to refer to the side of a garment. By inference, there
are two "lateral" sides to a body, aquatic sports performance
garment, or wetsuit.
[0032] As used herein, the term "anterior" generally refers to
human anatomy and means the front surface of the body (or a garment
worn on a body); often used to indicate the position of one
structure relative to another, that is, situated nearer the front
part of the body. Alternately, it may also refer in a similar
fashion to an apparatus or structure.
[0033] As used herein, the term "posterior" generally refers to
human anatomy and means the back surface of the body (or a garment
worn on a body); often used to indicate the position of one
structure relative to another, that is, situated nearer the back
part of the body. Alternately, it may also refer in a similar
fashion to an apparatus or structure.
[0034] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"superior" generally refers to human anatomy and means situated
nearer the vertex of the head in relation to a specific reference
point; opposite of inferior. It may also mean situated above or
directed upward. Alternately, it may also refer in a similar
fashion to an apparatus, (or a garment worn on a body) or
structure.
[0035] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"inferior" generally refers to human anatomy and means situated
nearer the soles of the feet in relation to a specific reference
point; opposite of superior. It may also mean situated below or
directed downward. Alternately, it may also refer in a similar
fashion to an apparatus, (or a garment worn on a body) or
structure.
[0036] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"medial" generally refers to orientations of human anatomy (or a
garment worn on a body) and means denoting a position situated
toward the median plane or midline of the body. Alternately, it may
also refer in a similar fashion to an apparatus or structure.
[0037] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"transverse plane", (also called the horizontal plane, axial plane,
or transaxial plane) is an imaginary plane that divides the body
into superior and inferior parts at the waist and or shoulders and
is perpendicular to the coronal and sagittal planes. As used herein
the two transverse planes described are typically: a first
transverse plane at the waist or approximate center of gravity of a
body; and a second transverse plane at the shoulders separating the
head from the rest of the body.
[0038] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"coronal plane", (also known as the frontal plane, sometimes
referred to as a longitudinal plane because it is perpendicular to
the transverse plane) is any vertical plane that divides the body
into ventral and dorsal (belly and back) sections.
[0039] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"sagittal plane", (also known as median plane or mid-sagittal
plane) is an anatomical plane which divides the body into right and
left halves. This plane cuts the body into halves (assuming
bilateral symmetry), passing through midline structures such as the
navel and spine. The term parasagittal is used to describe any
plane parallel to the sagittal plane.
[0040] As used herein, the anatomic axes of the body, performance
garment or wetsuit, will be described using the following
terminology: Sagittal Plane, Coronal or Frontal Plant and
Transverse (aka: Axial or Crossing) Planes. Consider three lines or
axes running through a swimmer's body and intersecting at right
angles at the swimmer's center of gravity, which also relate to
corresponding planes of intersection. A longitudinal axis is a line
drawn down the center of the standing body from the center of the
head, through the torso and to the ground between the legs. A
transverse axis is a line drawn from a first lateral side through
to the opposite (second) lateral side, typically at or about the
upper hip region or illiac crest, at the approximate center of
gravity of the body and intersecting the longitudinal (and frontal)
axis. A frontal axis is a line drawn from anterior to posterior
sides of the body, at the approximate center of gravity of the body
and intersecting the longitudinal (and transverse) axis.
Corresponding planes of intersection are the Sagittal, Coronal and
Transverse plane. The Sagittal plane is a plane that divides a body
equally into left and right halves from head to toe. A Coronal
plane is a plane that divides a body into front (anterior) and back
(posterior) halves. The Sagittal and Coronal planes intersect along
the longitudinal axis. The Transverse plane is a plane that divides
the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) halves at or
about the center of gravity of the body. The Transverse plane
intersects the body along the transverse and frontal axes. A
transverse plane can also describe a cross-section location of the
body, at any point between the top of the head and the bottom of
the feet, which divides the body into cranial (head) and caudal
(tail) portions. It is parallel to the ground, which (in humans)
separates the superior from the inferior, or put another way, the
head from the feet.
[0041] As used herein, "roll" refers to rotation of the swimmer's
torso or body about the longitudinal axis, wherein the Coronal and
Sagittal planes rotate or twist, but not necessarily in equal
amounts over their entire respective planes.
[0042] As used herein. "torso", means the trunk of the human body,
a wetsuit or similar aquatic sports performance garment to at least
the crotch region, without the head and arms, but optionally
including the upper to mid-thigh region of the legs.
[0043] As used herein, the term "core" refers to the muscular
structure of the central torso of a person. The major muscles of
the core reside in the area of the belly, the mid- and lower back,
and peripherally include the hips, the shoulders and to some
extent, the neck region. Major muscles of the core include: the
pelvic floor muscles, transversus abdominis, multifidus, internal
and external obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae
(sacrospinalis) especially the longissimus thoracis, and the
diaphragm. Minor core muscles include the latissimus dorsi, gluteus
maximus, and trapezius.
[0044] As used herein, "the body", refers to the entire human body,
a wetsuit or similar aquatic sports performance garment, including
the arms and legs, (without the hands or feet), but optionally
including a hood for the head, gloves for the hands or boots for
the feet.
[0045] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"about" or "approximately" means an acceptable error for a
particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art,
which depends in part on how the value is measured or determined.
In certain embodiments, the term "about" or "approximately" means
within 1, 2, 3, or 4 standard deviations. In certain embodiments,
the term "about" or "approximately" means within 30%, 25%, 20%,
15%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, or 0.05%
of a given value or range. In certain embodiments, the term "about"
or "approximately" means within 40.0 mm, 30.0 mm, 20.0 mm, 10.0 mm
5.0 mm 1.0 mm, 0.9 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.3
mm, 0.2 mm or 0.1 mm of a given value or range. In certain
embodiments, the term "about" or "approximately" means within 30.0
degrees, 20.0 degrees, 15.0 degrees, 10.0 degrees, 9.0 degrees, 8.0
degrees, 7.0 degrees, 6.0 degrees, 5.0 degrees, 4.0 degrees, 3.0
degrees, 2.0 degrees, 1.0 degrees, 0.9 degrees, 0.8 degrees, 0.7
degrees, 0.6 degrees, 0.5 degrees, 0.4 degrees, 0.3 degrees, 0.2
degrees, 0.1 degrees, 0.09 degrees. 0.08 degrees, 0.07 degrees,
0.06 degrees, 0.05 degrees, 0.04 degrees, 0.03 degrees, 0.02
degrees or 0.01 degrees of a given value or range.
[0046] As used herein, the term "arms-up" means any elevated
position of the arms of the garment wherein the arms are protruding
away from the main body of the garment, at an angle greater than 45
degrees, in any anterior to lateral orientation, wherein each
sleeve is separated by the sagittal plane and parallel to or
anterior to the coronal plane of the garment.
[0047] As used herein, the term "neoprene" refers to a synthetic
rubber made by the polymerization of chloroprene, characterized by
superior resistance (as to oils), and used especially for
special-purpose clothing (i.e.: as gloves, aquatic sports
performance garment and wetsuits).
[0048] As used herein, the term "aerated neoprene" refers to a type
of neoprene which comprises multiple laminated layers, at least one
of which is perforated and cut such that the final product is a
sealed neoprene with individual pockets of air trapped inside the
neoprene layers.
[0049] As used herein, the terms aquatic sports performance
garment, aquatic garment, wetsuit and similar terms are used
interchangeably and refer to any garment configured for and
intended to enhance the performance of athletes involved in sports
incorporating aquatic events including triathlon garments, aquatic
compression garments, body suits and other swimwear. These garments
provide drag reduction in the form of faster-than-skin surface
coatings, warmth, reduce fatigue and additional buoyancy to the
wearer, and are designed to enhance the speed and ease with which
the wearer moves through the water while swimming.
[0050] As used herein, the term "musculoskeletal complex" refers to
a combination of the muscular and skeletal systems working together
and includes the bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments of the body.
For example: a shoulder musculoskeletal complex means the bones,
muscles, tendons and ligaments of the shoulder region of the body.
As a further example: a hip musculoskeletal complex means the
bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments of the hip region of the
body.
[0051] As used herein, the terms "abut", "abuttable", "abutted",
"adjoining", "adjacent", "proximity" and similar terms mean next
to, aligned with, next to, touching, nearly touching, joining at an
edge or a border or mating with another thing in a flush, seamless
or near seamless manner so as to make a mating pair or mating
edges. The terms are also meant to mean nearness in space or
relationship, but not excluding the potential to be touching. The
terms are also alternatively meant to mean that one thing may be as
close to another thing as to be "in direct or nearly direct
contact" (in proximity) with another thing along some point. The
terms are also alternatively meant to mean that a first thing is
within about 0.1 cm, within about 0.5 cm, within about 1.0 cm
within about 2.0 cm, within about 4.0 cm, within about 6.0 cm,
within about 8.0 cm, or within about 10.0 cm to a second thing. The
terms are also meant to mean that items are "paired" or "mated
together" either in their paired function, nearly in contact and
functioning in unison, or at some point of contact.
[0052] As used herein, the terms "affix", "affixed", "affixable",
"fix" or "fixed" means to attach, append, bind, join, integrate,
add or fasten (something) to something else. This may be
accomplished in a large number of ways including various types of
fixation mediums such as glues, or epoxies (meant for either
temporary or permanent fixation), including pastes and gum
materials. Alternatively, an item may be affixed to something by
means of sewing them together with a threading material. Still
further, other types of attachment include various material welding
techniques such as ultrasonic welding--an industrial technique
whereby high-frequency ultrasonic acoustic vibrations are locally
applied to work pieces being held together under pressure to create
a solid-state weld. It is commonly used for plastics, various
rubbers and polymers (i.e.: neoprene, nylon, polyester,
polypropylene, polyurethanes, etc.), and especially for joining
dissimilar materials. In ultrasonic welding, there are no
connective threads, bolts, nails, staples, rivets, soldering
materials, or adhesives necessary to bind the materials together.
However, it is understood by one skilled in the art that the
ultrasonic weld itself is a consolidation of two materials (the
same or different) that have been welded or integrated together
(melted together using high-frequency sound waves and pressure),
creating a composite between the joined layers. One of skill in the
art will recognize that the aforementioned definitions and means of
attachment are not all-inclusive and would further understand that
there are many alternative means for attaching or affixing two or
more things such as similar and dissimilar fabrics and/or layered
materials together.
[0053] As used herein the term "stiffness" means the rigidity of an
object or material, or the extent to which an object or material
resists deformation in response to an applied force. Said another
way, stiffness is the resistance of an elastic body to deflection
or deformation by an applied force. The stiffness, k, of a body is
a measure of the resistance offered by an elastic body to
deformation. For an elastic body with a single degree of freedom
(DOF) (for example, stretching or compression of a rod), the
stiffness k (N/m, lb./in) is defined as
k = F .delta. , ##EQU00001##
where, F is the force (N, lb.) applied on the body and .delta. (m,
in) is the displacement produced by the force along the same degree
of freedom (for instance, the change in length of a stretched
spring). In the International System of Units, stiffness is
typically measured in Newtons per meter (N/m). In Imperial units,
stiffness is typically measured in pounds per inch (lb./in).
[0054] The complementary concept to stiffness is flexibility or
pliability: the more flexible an object is, the less stiff it is.
As used herein, "flexibility" means the quality of bending easily
without breaking.
[0055] The inverse of stiffness is compliance (or sometimes elastic
modulus), typically measured in units of meters per newton.
[0056] As used herein "rotational stiffness" is defined as k, given
by
k = M .theta. , ##EQU00002##
where M is the applied moment .theta. is the rotation. In the SI
system, rotational stiffness is typically measured in newton-meters
per radian. In the SAE system, rotational stiffness is typically
measured in inch-pounds per degree.
[0057] As used herein "elasticity" means the ability of an object
or material to resume its normal shape after being stretched or
compressed; stretchiness. In general, elastic modulus is not the
same as stiffness. Elastic modulus is a property of the constituent
material; stiffness is a property of a structure. That is, the
modulus is an intensive property of the material; stiffness, on the
other hand, is an extensive property of the solid body dependent on
the material and the shape and boundary conditions. For example,
for an element in tension or compression, the axial stiffness
is
k = AE L , ##EQU00003##
where A is the cross-sectional area, E is the (tensile) elastic
modulus (or Young's modulus), and L is the length of the
element.
[0058] Similarly, the rotational stiffness of a straight section
is
k = GJ L , ##EQU00004##
where "J" is the torsion constant for the section, "G" is the
rigidity modulus of the material, Note that in SI, these units
yield
k : N m rad . ##EQU00005##
For the special case of unconstrained uniaxial tension or
compression, Young's modulus can be thought of as a measure of the
stiffness of a material.
[0059] The stiffness of a structure is of principal importance in
many engineering applications, so the modulus of elasticity is
often one of the primary properties considered when selecting a
material. A high modulus of elasticity is sought when deflection is
undesirable, while a low modulus of elasticity is required when
flexibility is needed.
[0060] In summary: Young's modulus measures the resistance of a
material to elastic (recoverable) deformation under load. A stiff
material has a high Young's modulus and changes its shape only
slightly under elastic loads (e.g. diamond). A flexible material
has a low Young's modulus and changes its shape considerably (e.g.
rubbers). Elasticity is the tendency of solid materials to return
to their original shape after forces are applied on them. When the
forces are removed, the object will return to its initial shape and
size if the material is elastic. Stiffness is the rigidity of an
object the extent to which it resists deformation in response to an
applied force. The complementary concept of stiffness is
flexibility or pliability; the more flexible an object is, the less
stiff it is. Relative stiffness of a material is the property that
allows something to resist bending, stretching, twisting or other
deformation under a load. It is function of the material's modulus
of elasticity (see Young's modulus) and shape.
[0061] Provided herein is an aquatic sport performance garment
configured to reduce fatigue of a user when the garment is worn,
the garment having an aquatic sports performance garment material,
the garment comprising: an upper torso portion comprising; a left
sleeve portion having an left shoulder region, a left armpit region
and a left sleeve outer edge; and a right sleeve portion having an
right shoulder region, a right armpit region and a right sleeve
outer edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment is
biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the left sleeve outer
edge extends out generally anteriorly from a coronal plane of the
garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least
about +100.0.degree. relative to a transverse plane transecting the
upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder region and a top
of the right shoulder region, and wherein the left sleeve portion
of the garment is further positioned approximately parallel to a
sagittal plane of the garment, when the garment material is at
rest, prior to being worn by the user, wherein the right sleeve
portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up configuration, such
that the right sleeve outer edge extends out generally anteriorly
from the coronal plane of the garment at an angular range from
about -15.0.degree. to at least about +100.0.degree. relative to
the transverse plane, and wherein the right sleeve portion of the
garment is further positioned approximately parallel to the
sagittal plane of the garment, when the garment material is at
rest, prior to being worn by the user.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, one sees a front view, a back
view and a side view of one illustration of an aquatic sports
performance garment 100, 200, 300 comprising an upper torso portion
101, 201, 301 and a lower torso 120, 220, 320, abutting each other
at or about a 1.sup.st transverse plane 117, 217, 317, located at
or about a waist region 121, 221, 321, and perpendicular to the
sagittal plane 218 and the coronal plane 318. Alternatively, in
some embodiments, the garment is configurable as a one-piece
garment 314. Of primary interest, is the upper torso 101, 201, 301
comprising sleeves 103, 103a, 203, 303, which are cut, and
assembled in a pattern such that when in a relaxed, or at rest
state, each left and right outer sleeve portion 115, 315 is
positioned approximately parallel to a sagittal plane 118, 218, and
within a range from approximately -15 degrees to approximately +100
degrees from a 2.sup.nd transverse plane 116, 216, 316, located on
the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder region and a
top of the right shoulder region 112, 207, 312 and perpendicular to
the sagittal plane 218 and the coronal plane 318. Additionally, in
some embodiments the sleeves are configurable wherein they are
positioned an angled range measured from a lateral side of the
garment, between -15 degrees (medially offset from parallel to the
sagittal plane) to approximately 45 degrees laterally offset from
the sagittal plane. Said another way, the sleeves may point toward
the midline of the garment at an angle of approximately -15 degrees
or away from midline at an angle of approximately 45 degrees and
still be within the arms-up position from approximately -15 degrees
to +100 degrees relative to the transverse plane, as measured from
the top of the shoulders. Additionally, the sleeves 103, 103a, 203,
303 could be described as being in an arms-up state wherein they
are configurable to an elevated state that is approximately 15
degrees below horizontal from a transverse plane 116, 216, 316 that
is perpendicular to the shoulder region 112, 207, 312, to an
elevated state that is approximately 10 degrees past the coronal
plane 318 towards the posterior side of the garment above the head
of a user and further positioned at an angle range within -15
degrees to +45 degrees from a lateral side of the garment relative
to the sagittal plane of the garment.
[0063] By comparison, a traditional wetsuit or other traditional
sports aquatic garment would have the sleeves patterned and
constructed such that they rest essentially parallel or adjacent to
the lateral sides of the garment as reflected in FIG. 1 showing the
traditional position for sleeves 106 in dashed lines and labelled
"Traditional", also shown in FIG. 6 and labelled as 406.
[0064] Provided herein is an aquatic sports performance garment
configured to reduce fatigue of a user when the garment is worn,
the garment having an aquatic sports performance garment material,
the garment comprising: an upper torso portion comprising; a left
sleeve portion having an left shoulder region, a left armpit region
and a left sleeve outer edge; and a right sleeve portion having an
right shoulder region, a right armpit region and a right sleeve
outer edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment is
biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the left sleeve outer
edge extends out generally laterally relative to a sagittal plane
of the garment from a left lateral aspect of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to a transverse plane transecting the upper
torso at or about a top of the left shoulder region and a top of
the right shoulder region, and wherein the left sleeve portion of
the garment is further positioned in a range that is approximately
parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user,
wherein the right sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an
arms-up configuration, such that the right sleeve outer edge
extends out generally laterally relative to the sagittal plane from
a right lateral aspect of the garment at an angular range from
about -15.0.degree. to at least about +100.0.degree. relative to
the transverse plane, and wherein the right sleeve portion of the
garment is further positioned in a range that is approximately
parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the
user.
[0065] Referring once again to FIGS. 1 and 3 an alternative
embodiment of the upper torso 101 of the aquatic sports performance
garment 100 illustrates how the left and right sleeve portions 103a
of the garment (shown in lateral placement, in dashed lines) are
configurable such that the left and right sleeve portions of the
garment are biased in an arms-up configuration, wherein the sleeve
outer edges 115a extends out generally laterally relative to a
sagittal plane 118 of the garment from each lateral aspect of the
garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least
about +100.0.degree. relative to a transverse plane 116 transecting
the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder region and a
top of the right shoulder region 112, and wherein the outer sleeve
portions of the garment are further positioned in a range that is
approximately parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane 318 of
the garment, such as when viewed from the side, as in FIG. 3, when
the garment material is at rest. The anterior placement angle can
be an angle that is as little as zero (0) degrees or to about 45
degrees anterior of the coronal plane and anywhere within the
approximate -15 degree to approximate +100 degree range from the
transverse plane 116, 316.
[0066] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the garment material in the left shoulder region, left armpit
region, right armpit region and right armpit region comprises a
material thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm. In some
embodiments of the aquatic sports performance garment, the garment
material in the left shoulder region, left armpit region, right
armpit region and right armpit region comprises a material
thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 7.0 mm. The difference in the
ranges for material thicknesses has to do with the application of
the garment. For example, in a high performance triathlon garment
or a surfing garment, the user would desire and require thinner
material in the shoulders and armpits in order to afford greater
mobility and faster reaction time, without sacrificing endurance.
Alternatively, in deep water scuba or cold water triathlon and
surfing environments, a user would desire thicker materials to
preserve body heat and prevent isolated hypothermia to key muscle
groups in the upper torso regions. Further still, some users such
as Special Forces military personnel would ultimately require a
variety of different thickness high performance aquatic garments to
enable deployment in all areas and environments on the globe.
[0067] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the garment material in the left shoulder region, left armpit
region, right armpit region and right armpit region comprises a
modulus of elasticity from 0.31 kg/cm.sup.2 at 50% elongation to
4.14 kg/cm.sup.2 at 300% elongation.
[0068] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the upper torso portion, 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701, further
comprises: a neck region 130, 230, 430, 530 or 630; a chest
(pectoralis) region 105, 405, 519, 619 or 719; an upper back
(trapezius) region 205; an upper (latissimus dorsi) region 204 and
704, an abdominal region 107, 307, 427, 527, 627 and 727; a lateral
oblique (oblique abdominal) region 214, 308, 528; and a mid-to-low
back (thoraco-lumbar) region 202, 302 and 712.
[0069] In addition to the thickness of material and the assembled
pattern of the garment components, it is equally important to the
user that the garment material has the proper modulus of elasticity
in the appropriate regions of the garment. The materials used for
these garments must have variable moduli that can be strategically
placed in key locations, such as the shoulders, and armpits in
order to assure that the user is able to maximize their
performance, while minimizing their level of fatigue when using the
garment. If the user is constantly fighting a stiff material with a
high modulus of elasticity, they become fatigued much faster.
Whereas in some locations, a stiffer material with a higher modulus
of elasticity may be desired, for example, in the core (abdominal
and mid-to-low back) region, in order to provide additional support
for the user.
[0070] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment
100, 200, 400, 500, 600 or 700, described herein, the neck region
130, 230, 430, 530, 630 comprises a large collar portion; and a
free-floating flexible collar 109, 209, 409, 509, 609 or 709 with a
neck opening 110, 410, 510, 610 or 710. The large collar portion is
patterned and configured specifically to move with and improve
flexibility in the shoulder regions 112, 207, 312, 407, 507, 605,
606, 607, 608, 705 and 707, and in the armpit regions 113, 313,
413, 513 and 713. Further, the free-floating flexible collar 109,
209, 409, 509, 609 and 709 comprises highly flexible garment
material configured to seal around a neck of the user to
significantly reduce or prevent water from entering the garment
through the neck region.
[0071] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment
described herein, the neck region, chest (pectoralis) region, and
upper back (trapezius) region further comprise a material thickness
from about 1.0 mm to about 7.0 mm.
[0072] In some embodiments of the aquatic sports performance
garment described herein, the neck region, chest (pectoralis)
region, and upper back (trapezius) region further comprise a
material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm.
[0073] As with the material thickness in the shoulder and armpit
regions, the difference in the ranges for material thicknesses of
the neck region, chest (pectoralis) region, and upper back
(trapezius) region has to do with the application of the garment.
For example, in a high performance triathlon garment or a surfing
garment, the user would desire and require thinner material in the
neck region, chest (pectoralis) region, and upper back (trapezius)
region in order to have fluid movement and coordination with the
shoulders and armpits in order to afford greater mobility and
faster reaction time, without sacrificing endurance. Alternatively,
in deep water scuba or cold water triathlon and surfing
environments, a user would desire thicker materials to preserve
body heat and prevent isolated hypothermia to key muscle groups in
the upper torso regions. Further still, some users such as Special
Forces military personnel would ultimately require a variety of
different thickness high performance aquatic garments to enable
deployment in all areas and environments on the globe.
[0074] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the free-floating flexible collar, the abdominal region, the
lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region or the mid-to-low back
(thoraco-lumbar) region further comprise a material thickness from
about 1.0 mm to about 7.0 mm. In some embodiments of the aquatic
sports performance garment, the free-floating flexible collar, the
abdominal region, the lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region or
the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region further comprise a
material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm.
[0075] As with the material thickness in the shoulder and armpit
regions, the difference in the ranges for material thicknesses of
the free-floating flexible collar, the abdominal region, the
lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region or the mid-to-low back
(thoraco-lumbar) region are required for a variety of reason. For
example, around the neck region, the material thickness needs to
vary in order to provide comfort to the user so as to avoid a
feeling of choking, yet still maintain a high level of
waterproofing around the next to minimize water penetration of the
garment. In the lateral obliques, abdominal region and mid-back
regions, the user will want a mixed combination of flexibility and
stiffness to provide support for the core, yet flexibility under
the arms and around the sides of the chest.
[0076] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the garment material of the upper back (trapezius) region; the
upper (latissimus dorsi) region, the chest (pectoralis) region; the
abdominal region; or the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region
comprises an embedded liner that inhibits elongation of the garment
material therein more than the garment material in the left
shoulder region, the left armpit region, the right shoulder region
or the right armpit region.
[0077] The embedded liner used with the aquatic sports performance
garment can be crucial in that the proper selection affords the
user with varying degrees of uni-directional and/or
multi-directional elasticity. Some liners only allow for
uni-direction stretch, some liners allow for multi-directional
stretch, while still others allow for multi-directional stretch,
but to a different degree in longitudinal stretch versus horizontal
or diagonal stretch. As an example, the shoulder is the most
rotationally flexibly joint in the body. The neck region of the
body is next most flexible and must work in concert with the
shoulder regions. Therefore, the garment is designed to have the
highest degree of flexibility with a multi-directional liner in
these regions. Whereas the abdominal and mid back regions are
designed with unilateral, horizontal stretch in the liner of the
garment material to provide support for the core. Alternatively,
the upper back (trapezius) region; the upper (latissimus dorsi)
region and the chest (pectoralis) region need varying degrees of
longitudinal stretch, horizontal and diagonal stretch to allow for
rolling and stretching of the chest and upper body, working with
the arms and shoulders of the user.
[0078] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the left sleeve portion and the right sleeve portion comprise:
short sleeves 111, 211, 311, 411, 503 or 711, terminating between
an elbow 210 or 510 and a biceps region 208 or 508; or long sleeves
103, 103a, 203, 402, 502 or 702 terminating between an elbow 210 or
510 and a wrist 212 or 512.
[0079] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the garment material of the left shoulder region, the left armpit
region, the right shoulder region, the right armpit region
comprises multi-directional elasticity comprising elongation having
a range from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%;
about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to
about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%.
[0080] In some embodiments of the aquatic sports performance
garment 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 or 700, the aquatic sports
performance garment further comprises: a separable lower torso
portion 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620 or 720, also having an aquatic
sports performance garment material. In these embodiments the upper
torso portion is configurable such that the edges of the upper
torso garment either overlaps the edges of the lower torso garment;
or the upper torso portion edges abut with the lower torso edges at
or about a mid-section of the torso, typically at or about a
1.sup.st transverse plane 117, 217, 317, 417, 517, 617, 717,
commonly near the waist region 121, 221, 321, 421, 521, 621 or 721.
Alternatively, in some embodiments, the aquatic sports performance
garment is provided as a one-piece unit with an inseparable lower
torso, such as 314.
[0081] The lower torso portion typically comprises; a waist region
121, 221, 321, 421, 521, 621, 721; a pelvic girdle region 122, 222,
322, 422, 522, 622 722; including a crotch region 123; and left leg
and right leg portions 124, 224, 324, 424, 524 below the crotch
region. In some embodiments of the aquatic sports performance
garment, the left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise: a
short leg portion 125, 225, 325, 425, 625, 725 terminating at or
above a knee 523, 623, 723 or in a thigh region 525, 624, 724; or a
long leg portion extending below the knee in to the calf region
526, 726 or the ankle region 327.
[0082] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 or 700, the left sleeve portion and
the right sleeve portion 102, 103, 402, 502, 602, 603, 604 have
material thicknesses in a range comprising: about 0.5 mm to about
7.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 6.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 5.0 mm;
about 1.0 mm to about 4.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm; about
1.0 mm to about 2.0 mm; about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm; about 0.5 mm
to about 1.5 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 1.5 mm. or about 0.5 mm to
about 1.0 mm.
[0083] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the sleeves of the aquatic sports performance garment comprise an
inner edge sleeve portion 114, 414, 514, 614, 714; an outer edge
sleeve portion, 115, 115a, 415, 515, 615, 715; a forearm region,
206, 511, an elbow region, 210, 505; and a triceps/teres minor
region, 213, 506. In any of the sleeve embodiments, the material
thicknesses are in a range comprising: about 0.5 mm to about 7.0
mm; about 1.0 mm to about 6.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 5.0 mm;
about 1.0 mm to about 4.0 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm; about
1.0 mm to about 2.0 mm; about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm; about 0.5 mm
to about 1.5 mm; about 1.0 mm to about 1.5 mm. or about 0.5 mm to
about 1.0 mm.
[0084] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the material for constructing the upper back (trapezius) region
comprises multi-directional elasticity comprising elongation having
a range from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%;
about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to
about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%.
[0085] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 or 700, the material for constructing
the upper (latissimus dorsi) region, the chest (pectoralis) region,
the abdominal region, the lateral oblique region or the mid-to-low
back (thoraco-lumbar) region comprises uni-directional elasticity
comprising elongation having a range from: about 50% to about 400%;
about 100% to about 350%; about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to
about 250%; about 100% to about 200%; or about 100% to about
150%.
[0086] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the material for constructing the upper (latissimus dorsi) region,
the chest (pectoralis) region, the abdominal region, the lateral
oblique region or the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region
comprises multi-directional elasticity comprising elongation having
a range from: about 50% to about 400%; about 100% to about 350%;
about 100% to about 300%; about 100% to about 250%; about 100% to
about 200%; or about 100% to about 150%.
[0087] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 or 700, the material comprises
neoprene. Further still, in any embodiment of the aquatic sports
performance garment, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 or 700, the
garment material alternatively comprises a rubber; a nylon; a
polyester; a polypropylene; Lycra.RTM.; or Spandex.RTM..
[0088] In some embodiments, the aquatic sports performance garment
the upper torso and/or the lower torso portion further comprises a
quick opening feature 226. In some embodiments of the aquatic
sports performance garment, the quick opening feature(s) 226 is
(are) positioned: on an anterior aspect of the garment; on a
lateral aspect of the garment; or on a posterior aspect of the
garment. In some embodiments of the aquatic sports performance
garment, the quick opening feature is a zipper. In some embodiments
of the aquatic sports performance garment, the quick opening
feature comprises a Velcro.RTM. attachment. In some embodiments of
the aquatic sports performance garment, the quick opening feature
comprises: a hook; a loop; a rail, or a lip. In some embodiments of
the aquatic sports performance garment, the quick opening feature
226 further comprises a quick opening assist device 228, such as a
pull cord to aid the user in opening and closing the quick opening
feature, when it is in a hard to reach area, such as the back of
the garment.
[0089] In any embodiment of the aquatic sports performance garment,
the material comprises a liner. In some embodiments, the liner
comprises nylon. In any one of the embodiments the liner provides
uni-lateral elongation properties or multi-lateral elongation
properties to the garment materials. In any embodiment of the
aquatic sports performance garment, the aquatic sports performance
garment material comprises a configurable embedded liner that
limits the percentage and direction of elongation of the garment
material, wherein the percentage of elongation of the garment
materials is from at least 50% at least 400%, and wherein the
direction of elongation of the garment materials is either
uni-direction or multi-directional. As noted earlier, the degree of
elongation, the direction of elongation in the liner used in the
material of the various components and their location in the
aquatic sports performance garment have a direct impact on the
performance of the user of the garment.
[0090] Provided herein is a method of manufacturing an aquatic
sports performance garment comprising: providing an aquatic sports
performance material; patterning an upper torso portion comprising;
a neck region; a chest (pectoralis) region; an upper back
(trapezius) region; an upper (latissimus dorsi) region, an
abdominal region; a lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region; and
a mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region; wherein the neck region
comprises a large collar portion; and a free-floating flexible
collar with a neck opening; patterning a left sleeve portion having
a left shoulder region, a left armpit region and a left sleeve
outer edge; patterning a right sleeve portion having a right
shoulder region, a right armpit region, and a right sleeve outer
edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment is biased in
an arms-up configuration, such that the left sleeve outer edge
extends out generally anteriorly from a coronal plane of the
garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least
about +100.0.degree. relative to a second transverse plane
transecting the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder
region and a top of the right shoulder region, and wherein the left
sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned approximately
parallel to a sagittal plane of the garment, when the garment
material is at rest, prior to being worn by a user, and wherein the
right sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up
configuration, such that the right sleeve outer edge extends out
generally anteriorly from the coronal plane of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to the second transverse plane, and wherein
the right sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned
approximately parallel to the sagittal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user,
and wherein the upper-torso portion of the garment covers the
upper-torso of the user from a first transverse plane 117, 217,
317, 417, 517, 617, 717, at or about a waist of the user to a neck
region.
[0091] Provided herein is a method of manufacturing an aquatic
sports performance garment comprising: providing an aquatic sports
performance material; patterning an upper torso portion comprising;
a neck region with a neck opening; a chest (pectoralis) region; an
upper back (trapezius) region; an upper (latissimus dorsi) region,
an abdominal region; a lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region;
and a mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region; wherein the neck
opening comprises the free-floating flexible collar, patterning a
left sleeve portion having a left shoulder region, a left armpit
region and a left sleeve outer edge; patterning a right sleeve
portion having a right shoulder region, a right armpit region, and
a right sleeve outer edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the
garment is biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the left
sleeve outer edge extends out generally laterally relative to a
sagittal plane of the garment from a left lateral aspect of the
garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least
about +100.0.degree. relative to a second transverse plane
transecting the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder
region and a top of the right shoulder region, and wherein the left
sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned in a range that
is approximately parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane of
the garment, when the garment material is at rest, prior to being
worn by the user, and wherein the right sleeve portion of the
garment is biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the right
sleeve outer edge extends out generally laterally relative to the
sagittal plane from a right lateral aspect of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to the second transverse plane, 116, 216,
316, 416, 516, 616, 716 and wherein the right sleeve portion of the
garment is further positioned in a range that is approximately
parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user.
In some embodiments the method further comprises: patterning a
quick opening feature in the upper torso portion; wherein the quick
opening feature is positioned: on an anterior aspect of the
garment; on a lateral aspect of the garment; or on a posterior
aspect of the garment. In some embodiments of the method, the quick
opening feature is a zipper. In some embodiments of the method, the
quick opening feature comprises a Velcro.RTM. attachment. In some
embodiments of the method, the quick opening feature comprises: a
hook; a loop; a rail, or a lip. In some embodiments the method
further comprises: patterning a lower torso portion, abuttable to,
or affixable to, the upper torso portion comprising; a waist
region, a pelvic girdle region, a crotch region, a left leg portion
and a right leg portion; wherein the lower-torso portion covers the
lower torso of the user from the first transverse plane 117, 217,
317, 417, 517, 617, 717, at or below the waist of the user to a
portion of the body to at least an area below the pelvic girdle. In
some embodiments the method further comprises: affixing the
lower-torso portion to the upper torso portion to form a one-piece
aquatic sports performance garment. In some embodiments of the
method, the left sleeve portion and the right sleeve portion
comprise: patterning a short sleeve terminating between an elbow
region and a biceps region; or patterning a long sleeve terminating
between an elbow region and a wrist. In some embodiments of the
method, the left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise: a
short leg portion terminating at or above a knee; or a long leg
portion extending below the knee. In some embodiments the method
further comprises: providing a thermally insulating material having
a thickness in a range from about 0.5 mm to about 7.0 mm. In some
embodiments of the method, the thermally insulating material
comprises: a neoprene; a rubber; nylon; polyester; a polypropylene;
Lycra.RTM.; or Spandex.RTM.. In some embodiments the method further
comprises: providing the material with multi-directional elasticity
in the left shoulder region, the left armpit region, the right
shoulder region, the right armpit region and the upper back
(trapezius) region; and providing material with uni-directional
elasticity; in the upper-lateral (latissimus dorsi) region, in the
chest (pectoralis) region, in the abdominal region, in the lateral
oblique region, and in the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar)
region.
[0092] Provided herein is a wetsuit comprising: a material
providing thermal insulation to a user thereof; an upper torso
portion comprising a neck region with an opening; and a left sleeve
portion having an upper left shoulder region, a left armpit region
and a left sleeve outer edge; and a right sleeve portion having an
upper right shoulder region, a right armpit region and a right
sleeve outer edge; wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment
is biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the left sleeve
outer edge extends out generally anteriorly from a coronal plane of
the garment at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at
least about +100.0.degree. relative to a second transverse plane,
116, 216, 316, 416, 516, 616, 716, transecting the upper torso at
or about a top of the left shoulder region and a top of the right
shoulder region, and wherein the left sleeve portion of the garment
is further positioned approximately parallel to a sagittal plane
118, 218, 418, 518, 618 of the garment, when the garment material
is at rest, prior to being worn by the user, wherein the right
sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up
configuration, such that the right sleeve outer edge extends out
generally anteriorly from the coronal plane 318, 718 of the garment
at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to the second transverse plane, and wherein
the right sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned
approximately parallel to the sagittal plane of the garment, when
the garment material is at rest, prior to being worn by the user,
wherein the left sleeve portion and the right sleeve portion
comprise; short sleeves terminating between an elbow and a biceps
region; or long sleeves terminating between an elbow and a wrist, a
lower torso portion having an aquatic sports performance garment
material, the lower torso portion comprising; a waist region, a
pelvic girdle region, including a crotch region; and a left leg
portion and a right leg portion below the crotch region; wherein
the left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise; a short
leg portion terminating at or above a knee; or a long leg portion
extending below the knee.
[0093] Provided herein is a wetsuit comprising: a material
providing thermal insulation to a user thereof; an upper torso
portion comprising; a left sleeve portion having an upper left
shoulder region, a left armpit region and a left sleeve outer edge;
and a right sleeve portion having an upper right shoulder region, a
right armpit region and a right sleeve outer edge; wherein the left
sleeve portion of the garment is biased in an arms-up
configuration, such that the left sleeve outer edge extends out
generally laterally relative to a sagittal plane 118, 218, 418,
518, 618 of the garment from a left lateral aspect of the garment
at an angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to a second transverse plane transecting
the upper torso at or about a top of the left shoulder region and a
top of the right shoulder region, and wherein the left sleeve
portion of the garment is further positioned in a range that is
approximately parallel to, or anterior to, a coronal plane 318, 718
of the garment, when the garment material is at rest, prior to
being worn by the user, wherein the right sleeve portion of the
garment is biased in an arms-up configuration, such that the right
sleeve outer edge extends out generally laterally relative to the
sagittal plane from a right lateral aspect of the garment at an
angular range from about -15.0.degree. to at least about
+100.0.degree. relative to the second transverse plane, and wherein
the right sleeve portion of the garment is further positioned in a
range that is approximately parallel to, or anterior to, the
coronal plane of the garment, when the garment material is at rest,
prior to being worn by the user, wherein the left sleeve portion
and the right sleeve portion comprise; short sleeves terminating
between an elbow and a biceps region; or long sleeves terminating
between an elbow and a wrist, a lower torso portion having an
aquatic sports performance garment material, the lower torso
portion comprising; a waist region, a pelvic girdle region,
including a crotch region; and a left leg portion and a right leg
portion below the crotch region; wherein the left leg portion and
the right leg portion comprise; a short leg portion terminating at
or above a knee; or a long leg portion extending below the knee. In
any one of the wetsuit configurations described herein, the wetsuit
further comprises a neck region; a chest (pectoralis) region; an
upper back (trapezius) region; an upper (latissimus dorsi) region,
an abdominal region; a lateral oblique (oblique abdominal) region;
and a mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region. In any one of the
wetsuit configurations described herein, the garment material in
the left shoulder region, left armpit region, right armpit region
and right armpit region comprise a material thickness from about
0.5 mm to about 7.0 mm. In some embodiments of the wetsuit
configurations described herein, the garment material in the left
shoulder region, left armpit region, right armpit region and right
armpit region comprise a material thickness from about 0.5 mm to
about 2.5 mm. In any one of the wetsuit configurations described
herein, the neck region, chest (pectoralis) region, and upper back
(trapezius) region further comprise a material thickness from about
1.0 mm to about 7.0 mm. In some embodiments of the wetsuit
configurations described herein, the neck region, the chest
(pectoralis) region, or the upper back (trapezius) region further
comprise a material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm. In
any one of the wetsuit configurations described herein, the
free-floating flexible collar, the abdominal region, the lateral
oblique (oblique abdominal) region or the mid-to-low back
(thoraco-lumbar) region further comprise a material thickness from
about 1.0 mm to about 7.0 mm. In some embodiments of the wetsuit
configurations described herein, the free-floating flexible collar,
the abdominal region, the lateral oblique (oblique abdominal)
region or the mid-to-low back (thoraco-lumbar) region further
comprise a material thickness from about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm. In
any one of the wetsuit configurations described herein, the garment
material in the left shoulder region, left armpit region, right
armpit region and right armpit region comprise a modulus of
elasticity from 0.31 kg/cm.sup.2 at 50% elongation to 4.14
kg/cm.sup.2 at 300% elongation.
[0094] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have
been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those
skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of
example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will
now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the
invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the
embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in
practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims
define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures
within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered
thereby.
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